In the News

The long-dreamt-of Scranton passenger rail line moved closer to reality this week, when it was included in a program tasked with developing passenger lines throughout the country.

On December 5, the Federal Railroad Administration included Northeastern Pennsylvania in its Corridor Identification and Development Program to reestablish direct passenger service between Scranton and New York City. The program was created by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and fund initial steps, such as the drafting of a scoping document, scheduling, and cost estimates. The program is open to a wide range of applicants.

U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwright, who represents a district that includes Pike and Wayne counties. He is a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee and worked with U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer to ensure Amtrak was included in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which allocated billions for rail. 

He said the proposed line will create jobs and offer convenient travel options for commuters, college students, and tourists alike. It will also connect the residents of Northeast Pennsylvania to wider health care services, sporting events, cultural activities and vacation spots, he said.

“This is a significant milestone and represents years of dedicated efforts to restore passenger rail service, which will contribute to our region’s economic growth and vitality,” Cartwright said.